Tuesday, June 19, 2007

A Naperville man learned a hard lesson about speeding when his prized sports car was seized by authorities who clocked him traveling 127 mph in a 35 mph zone.

The lead-footed motorist's dangerous stunt came to light recently when Plainfield police unveiled their new DARE car: a 2000 Dodge Viper.

Plainfield patrol officer Mario Marzetta was about finished running radar on Essington Road in March 2006 when the catch of the day flew by.

He heard it before he saw it -- the Viper's engine revving high before the car blew by him traveling nearly 100 mph over the speed limit.

Sold for $68,000 new

The driver was eventually charged with felony fleeing and eluding police, while his car became the property of the Plainfield Police Department. Plainfield authorities wouldn't identify the driver.

Now the shiny black Viper with a cognac leather interior has a fresh-paint detail and is outfitted with lights, ready to serve as the department's new DARE car. DARE stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education.

The DARE car, which will be taken to community events, block parties, parades and schools, will make its public debut today at Cruise Night in downtown Plainfield.

The car's custom paint job features an airbrushed American flag design on the hood.

The vehicle has 17,000 miles on it and is in like-new condition.

When Marzetta dropped the man off at the Will County Jail, the officer "thanked" him for the car.

The 2000 Dodge Viper was sold by dealers for about $68,000 and today has a Kelley Blue Book retail value between $33,000 and $40,000.